Rivers Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has charged judicial officers in the state to remain courageous and incorruptible, urging them to resist pressure and intimidation in the administration of justice.
Fubara gave the charge in his goodwill message at the Special Court Session marking the opening of the 2026/2027 Legal Year in Rivers State on Thursday.
The governor, whose message was delivered by his Deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, commended the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Simone-Chibuzor-Amadi, for standing firm in the face of political pressure when it mattered most.
He disclosed that his administration had approved 50 per cent of overhead funding and the release of the judiciary’s capital budget as contained in the current appropriation law, to enhance the effectiveness of the judicial system.
Fubara said, ‘We need to do more to realise our vision for judicial reform. And I assure you that we shall continue to do our best to resolve the challenges and strengthen our judiciary to serve the interests of our state and citizens.
‘To my Lords and the Bench, the burden you bear is heavy, yet you must remain steadfast, for the citizens place their faith in you for the protection of their rights, fairness, and hope for impartial justice.
‘Therefore, as you enter this new legal year, remember that your decisions shape our state’s destiny and influence our confidence in bringing businesses to our land.
‘Guard your independence jealously and discharge your duties without fear, favour, or ill will. You must remain courageous and consistent even when faced with subtle intimidation or political threats.
‘Always consider the impact of your judgments on the peace, stability and survival of our society.
‘We have seen several instances in which the truth was known, yet judges were coerced into unholy compromises to satisfy the interests of external masters, thereby bending the law.
‘But be courageous and incorruptible, stand firm against pressure and protect the rule of law, our democracy and its institutions. This is the only way to earn the public’s lasting applause, trust and confidence.’
The governor also reminded other stakeholders in the administration of justice, particularly members of the Bar, of their responsibility in ensuring effective and timely delivery of justice.
Earlier in his address, the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simone-Chibuzor-Amadi, urged political parties and their supporters to refrain from activities capable of portraying the judiciary in a bad light as the 2027 general elections approach.
He said, ‘Before I conclude, let me remind us that the 2027 general elections are fast approaching. I use this occasion to urge political parties and their members to refrain from engaging in political activities that will put the judiciary in a bad light.
‘The integrity of our courts relies on the respect and decorum of those who appear before them. We must not allow the temple of justice to be desecrated by political bigmanship.’
The Chief Judge assured that the judiciary would sustain its drive for technological advancement and infrastructural development, adding that the institution remained open to partnerships that would improve justice delivery.
Justice Chibuzor-Amadi, however, expressed concern over the operations of the Rivers State Judicial Service Commission without commissioners and called for the appointment of commissioners to enable the commission to function effectively.
He also called for increased recruitment of judicial staff, citing manpower shortages as one of the challenges affecting the effective administration of justice in the state.